John Lucchese – September, 1999

The United States Dancesport Hall of Fame Award is given in recognition of his outstanding contribution, devotion and dedication to ballroom dancing in the United States.

Born in New York City in 1918, John’s early dance education encompassed ballet, jazz, tap and acrobatics. He went on to study ballroom and graduated college in 1941 with a BS in physical education. After serving in the US Army Air Corps in WWII as a First Lieutenant, John continued studying and received his Doctorate in Law in 1948. John’s contribution to dance include trainer and consultant for both Arthur Murray and Fred Astaire, author of two books on dance, Ballroom Director for Dance Educators of America for 30 years, National Dance Council of America representative for 20 years and 65 years of teaching, coaching, judging and promoting ballroom dancing. He is revered and respected by those of us who have known his work as a teacher and regarded him with great affection by those who have known the man.